Pope Francis' Health Worsens

Pope Francis has been hospitalized in Rome’s Gemelli hospital since February 14th due to bronchitis and labored breathing. The Pope has had a week-long battle with respiratory illness as has since then been diagnosed with double pneumonia. The Holy See press office said in its Feb. 22 update that the pope’s condition “continues to be critical.”

In a February 22nd statement, the Holy See press office said, “This morning, Pope Francis experienced an asthma-like respiratory crisis of prolonged intensity, which required the administration of high-flow oxygen.”

The update noted the pope’s blood tests revealed an abnormally low count of platelets, associated with anemia, requiring him to receive blood transfusions.

Archbishop Nelson J. Pérez of Philadelphia issued a statement on February 22nd requesting prayers for Pope Francis.

“I call for everyone throughout the Archdiocese of Philadelphia to join in prayer for Pope Francis as he continues to battle serious illness. Let us keep the Holy Father close to our hearts and ask God to strengthen him,” said Archbishop Pérez.

He also provided a suggested petition for the prayer of the faithful at Mass on Sunday, Feb. 23 “and the next several days,” asking that Pope Francis “may be strengthened in every way by the Lord in his present suffering and be uplifted by the prayers for him by people all over the world.”